Filmblanc has been generating quite a bit of news lately out of its Toronto offices. In addition to signing a pair of directors for exclusive representation in Canada, executive producer Noemi Weis reports a partnership with Toronto’s The Plutino Group.

Recently added to Filmblanc’s roster of international directorial wealth are Finland-based-but-Mexican-born Hector Abaunza and Italy’s Luca Maroni.

Maroni, a former agency art director known the world over for his directorial work, has shot for Reebok, Mercedes and a series of spots for Breil Tribe, one of which involves a giant man-eating mouse. Weis says she is also excited to have Abaunza aboard. He has helmed spots for clients such as Comfort, Take n’ Bake Pizza and Jenkki. The director reportedly speaks six languages, which Weis says is very helpful when communicating with clients and agencies across the planet.

The deal with Roseanna Plutino’s Plutino Group, a 10-year-old rep house for crew members, photographers and artists on the print side of advertising, will allow Filmblanc ‘to give people the full package when they come in from overseas,’ says Weis. ‘What this enables Filmblanc to do is offer clients not only the broadcast production end, but print production as well.’

Weis plans to spread the word at the Cannes Advertising Festival in June that not only is she ready to meet advertisers’ television needs with access to more than 30 directors, but now has a squadron of photographers and crew people to help flesh out campaigns with print work as well.

‘We are ready to go to Cannes with it and let people know that when they come to Canada there is even more talent here, which goes with the philosophy of Filmblanc – putting more talent together,’ says Weis.

*Cruising for charity

The third annual Bereaved Families of Ontario Boat Cruise, organized by Rachel Fox of Saatchi & Saatchi, will take place this year on June 17. Tickets for the popular nautical get-together are $110 each, with all proceeds going to the bfo. Last year, the cruise raised about $6,000 for the charity.

The event is timed to coincide with one of the Benson & Hedges Symphony of Fire international fireworks displays at Toronto’s Ontario Place. The theme is based on this year’s Symphony of Fire host country, South Africa, and Fox promises an African band playing through the night, as well as an oyster bar and plenty of fun.

Last year’s cruise saluted Spain, with a seafaring Mariachi band.

Fox says the approximately 225 available tickets for the event are open to anyone who wishes to come aboard.

*Montford leaves Players

Sales rep Jenny Montford has left The Players Film Company. Montford says her departure from Philip Mellows’ production house was an amicable one, and promises she will let us all know when she lands somewhere new.